The aim of the project is to mitigate potential adverse effects caused by flooding in risk areas in Estonia and to raise awareness and operational capacity related to flood risks.
As a result of the project, monitoring, forecasting, and warning systems for water levels and sudden rainfall will be developed to prevent and mitigate flood risks. In the long term, these systems will help increase resilience to climate change. The project includes studies to identify the best preventive measures in risk areas, as well as awareness-raising activities aimed at flood risk prevention.
Project duration
1.01.2024 – 31.12.2029
Project budget
10 293 020 euros
Project funding
European Regional Development Fund (70%) and national co-financing (30%)
Project topics
- Developments
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Development of a Hydrological Forecast Model
Detailed information is provided in a separate vision document. A catchment-based forecast model for all hydrometric stations and a runoff module-based forecast for every watercourse point, including 10 and 45-day forecasts for water level and discharge, as well as a warning system. It also includes developments for the hydrological information system (WISKI) and the automation of processes for the transfer of operational data into the model.
The objective is to ensure accurate hydrological forecasts and timely warnings in the case of flood risks.
Creation of a Flood Data Consolidation and Analytics System
Detailed information is provided in a separate vision document. Consolidation of historical, operational, and probabilistic flood information, including map layers, forecasts, statistical data layers, damage assessments, action plans, and INSPIRE- format reporting, as well as analytics and forecasting capabilities. Design solutions for integration between different information systems, public outputs, and user data views. Necessary developments to the Environmental Portal and other information systems for data exchange and publication related to floods.
The objective is to consolidate flood-related data and enhance analytical capacity to ensure improved monitoring, forecasting, and warning systems.
Development of a Warning System for Flash Floods and Urban Flooding in Risk Areas
Detailed information is available in a separate vision document (AI project). Modeling of bluespots, integration of radar nowcasting data with the drainage capacities of stormwater systems, map of flooded areas, and water retention time under varying rainfall amounts. Development of flood risk warnings within the ILM+ location-based warning system.
The objective is to prevent and mitigate damage caused by flash floods.
- Investments
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Development of Radar-Based Water Level Monitoring Operational Service
Detailed description is provided in a separate vision document. Procurement and installation of water level radars (a novel technology) in flood risk areas currently lacking monitoring stations.
The objective is to provide accurate forecasts and timely warnings in the event of flood risks and to raise awareness related to flood hazards.
Monitoring Station in Harju County Risk Area and Ardi Hydrometric Station
Reactivation of a closed station and establishment of a monitoring station at Tilgu Harbour. Option to add a weather display screen. The Ardi hydrometric station is located in the upper reaches of the Keila River, within the Kiisa-Maidla flood risk area.
The objective to provide accurate forecasts and timely warnings in the event of flood risks and to raise awareness related to flood hazards.
Development of Flash Flood Warning System and Weather Radars
Detailed description is provided in a separate vision document. Procurement of two weather radars to serve risk areas in order to ensure the accuracy of short-term precipitation forecasts and the timeliness of warnings.
The objective is to provide accurate forecasts and timely warnings in the event of flood risks and to raise awareness related to flood hazards.
Modernization of the Hydrometeorological Monitoring Network
Modernization of the hydrometeorological monitoring network based on analysis results, including upgrading hydrometeorological monitoring stations in risk areas and ensuring electricity connections for stations serving those areas to maintain operational resilience.
The objective is to provide accurate forecasts and timely warnings in the event of flood risks and to raise awareness related to flood hazards.
- Analyses and Preparedness (Including Communication Activities)
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Business Analyses for the Hydrological Forecast Model, Flood Information System, and flash flood and AI Project on Flash and Urban Flooding
Analysis and selection of existing solutions for further development, preparation of IT development terms of reference, and technical specifications. The objective is to ensure the best possible solutions for the project´s IT developments.
Analysis of Permanent Monitoring Network Development Needs and Communication Activities
Assessment of development needs in the permanent monitoring network to ensure the procurement of the best possible technical solutions within the project (determining where and what type of equipment to procure), and development of a comprehensive concept for communication activities.
The objective is to ensure optimal technical solutions for monitoring network development and for public communication related to flood hazards.
Analyses, Calculations and Map Layers Related to Flood Probabilities
Calculation of flood probabilities for inland water bodies, analysis of ground floor elevations in risk areas, creation of new flood risk map layers, GIS analyses.
The objective is to prevent flood risks, avoid related damages, and ensure preparedness of authorities and residents in case of flood risk.
Training, Capacity Building, Awerness Activities and Communication Related to Use of Support Funding
Target groups include local governments, state authorities and residents. Activities involve awareness campaigns, training sessions and two nationwide conferences aimed at the public to increase awareness of flood hazards and preparedness for actual emergency situations to reduce damage. Additionally, communication activities related to the use of support funding will be carried out.
The objective is to raise awareness and competence regarding flood risks, ensure preparedness, and inform about the public about the use of structural funds.
Flood Risk Analysis, Reports and Maps and Flood Zone Risk Analyses
Assessment of flood-related risks, updating of flood hazard and flood risk maps, conducting risk analyses for flood-prone areas, and development of general risk mitigation measures.
The objective is to reduce flood risks, prevent flood hazards and related damages.
Kick-off
The project's kick-off event took place on September 27, 2024, in Pärnu, at the Pernova Nature Centre.
Project Partners and Stakeholders
The project is implemented by the Environmental Agency, with the involvement of representatives from the Ministry of Climate, the Environmental Board, the Rescue Board, and the Ministry of the Interior. Local governments in flood risk areas are also engaged in the activities, and the Environmental Investment Centre acts as an observer.
Contacts
Kaili Simberg (Environment Agency, project manager), @email, tel 5191 7644
Jana Põldnurk (Environment Agency, head of climate department), @email, tel 5699 5304
